Financing your boat: insights from CGI Finance

Visitors to this year’s British Motor Yacht Show, 14 – 17 May, will once again have the opportunity to explore a wide range of motor yachts and the expertise that supports ownership.

For many, the decision to purchase is not simply about choosing the right boat but understanding how best to structure the investment behind it.

Partnering with some of the world’s most sought-after motor yacht brands, CGI Finance works closely with dealers and brokers across the UK and Europe, supporting buyers at every stage of the purchase journey.

Based in Lymington, Hampshire, CGI Finance’s UK team – led by Kris Garner, Head of UK Branch and Executive Director – brings a local, relationship-led approach, backed by the strength of a European market leader. Kris and his team will be available throughout all four days of the show.

In this guest blog, CGI Finance shares practical insight into motor yacht financing – outlining the options available and helping buyers approach the process with greater clarity and confidence.

Understanding motor yacht financing

Before committing to a specific motor yacht, it is important to understand the range of financing options available. Financing a motor yacht differs from more familiar forms of lending, often involving specialist providers with a detailed understanding of marine purchases.

Surveys carried out by qualified marine surveyors are typically required, helping to confirm the condition and value of the boat as part of the process.

Types of motor yacht financing

Marine mortgages

Marine loansMarine mortgages are designed specifically for motor yacht purchases and are secured against the vessel itself. They typically require a deposit – often around 30% – with terms that may extend from 10 to 15 years. Interest rates may be fixed or variable, and the maximum term is often influenced by the age and value of the motor yacht.

There may be additional legal costs involved in securing a charge against the boat. As with any secured borrowing, it is important to be aware that the motor yacht may be repossessed if repayments are not maintained.

Marine loans

A marine loan is generally an unsecured agreement between the lender and borrower. Unlike a marine mortgage, it is not secured against the boat, which can offer greater flexibility but may come with different lending terms.

Personal loans

For those with a strong financial profile, a personal loan may be an option. These are typically unsecured and can be arranged relatively quickly, although they often carry shorter repayment terms and higher interest rates compared to marine-specific products.

Owner financing

In some cases, sellers may offer financing directly. This can provide an alternative route where terms are agreed between buyer and seller, potentially simplifying the process depending on individual circumstances.

Using property equity

Some buyers choose to release equity from a property to support a motor yacht purchase. This approach can be suitable for those who are asset-rich but prefer to structure liquidity differently. As with all borrowing, it is advisable to seek independent advice to understand the implications.

Preparing for motor yacht financing

Assess your financial position

Before applying for finance, it is important to review your overall financial position. Lenders will typically assess income, existing commitments, credit history and overall financial profile.

Check regulation and authorisation

Ensuring that your lender is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is an important step. Regulated products provide access to protections such as the Financial Ombudsman Service, offering additional reassurance. You can check if a firm is authorised using the FCA Firm Checker.

Gather documentation

Having documentation prepared in advance can help streamline the process. This may include:

  • Proof of income
  • Personal financial statements
  • Details of the motor yacht being considered
  • Proof of identity and recent proof of address

Lenders will often carry out electronic identity verification and credit checks as part of the application, both of which will leave a footprint on your credit record. These steps should only be undertaken when necessary, rather than at an early exploratory stage.

Working with a specialist lender

Specialist marine lenders bring an understanding of both the financial and practical aspects of motor yacht ownership. This includes insight into purchase processes, market conditions and the ongoing considerations that come with owning a boat.

Through a network of over 250 distributors across the UK and Europe – including France, Italy, Germany and Spain – CGI Finance supports buyers across a wide range of motor yacht brands, offering tailored finance solutions aligned to individual circumstances.

A practical starting point

For those beginning to explore financing options, tools such as CGI Finance’s online loan calculator can offer a useful starting point – helping to provide an early indication of potential structures and monthly repayments.

Looking beyond the purchase

Financing is just one part of the overall ownership picture. Ongoing costs such as insurance, maintenance, berthing and servicing should all be factored into long-term planning.

Taking a broader view of these considerations can help ensure that ownership remains both enjoyable and sustainable over time.

Plan your visit

Visitors to the British Motor Yacht Show 2026 will have the opportunity to meet Kris Garner of CGI Finance across all four days of the show.

Whether you are actively considering a purchase or simply exploring your options, these conversations can help bring clarity to your next step.

Register your attendance and request an appointment with CGI Finance.

Important information: When exploring financing options, it is advisable to seek independent financial advice. Your motor yacht may be repossessed if you do not keep up with repayments.

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